Public Art is any art within public spaces like parks, streets, buildings and other areas and is freely accessible for public use. It can take many forms ranging from large permanent sculptures to a small projection project.

Public art on the Central Coast delivers powerful social, cultural, and financial benefits. It fosters community pride, connection, and wellbeing by reflecting local stories and encouraging inclusive participation. Art in public spaces brings people together, promotes mental health, and celebrates diverse identities – sparking education and cultural dialogue.

Public art activates places, draws tourism, and supports local businesses and creative industries. Council initiatives like Creative Art Central and other arts grants empower local artists, stimulate employment, and diversify our region’s economy.

The Public Art Plan & Policy is a strategic framework that guides Council’s approach to support the development, commissioning, and ongoing management of public art within the community.

It outlines a vision, framework and processes for integrating and maintaining art into public spaces, ensuring that works reflect local identity, culture, and values.

It seeks pathways/opportunities for the community and local artists to contribute to local identity, culture and placemaking.

A Public Art Plan & Policy ensures that public art is thoroughly considered, taking a strategic and financially responsible approach – aligned with community aspirations.

It provides a consistent approach to decision-making, supporting local artists, and enhances the visual and cultural landscape of our public spaces.

While not mandatory, many Councils choose to adopt a Public Art Plan & Policy to support place-based cultural development and community engagement. It demonstrates a commitment to fostering local creativity, celebrating local heritage, and improving public spaces through creative expression.

Some key benefits include:

• Enriching public spaces with meaningful and engaging artworks
• Strengthening community identity and pride
• Supporting local artists and creative industries
• Encouraging cultural tourism and economic development
• Providing clear and consistent frameworks for selection and maintenance

Further information is available on Council’s website, including the full draft of the Public Art Plan & Policy, background documents, and in our consultation events – see our Your Voice Our Coast page for more information.

The Plan & Policy was developed through research, community consultation, and collaboration with artists, cultural experts, and with input from relevant Council business units.

It reflects feedback from artists, residents and stakeholders, and aims to create a shared long-term vision for public art in our region.

An overview of community engagement and community priorities are outlined in Section 2 of the Plan.

You can also view the results of the 2024 community survey in this summary.